From the very first seconds of Sphynx, the opening song from the second album of this French band two things are clear. On one hand, this is an atmospheric album with interesting sounds. On the other hand, this is an adventurous album with a touch of elegance. European bands undoubtedly have a romantic sound and a unique way of composing (quite structured) that distinguish them from north American band (though there are always exceptions).
Middle Eastern textures appear among a sea of synthesizers, reverb-drench guitars, electronic beats and pulsing basslines throughout the six minutes of the opening song, serving as an invitation and summary of everything that’s about to come. Mystère is an electronic and spacey album, and still, it’s quite diverse with multiple sensitivities flowing along its 70-minute run.
The more rhythmic songs move halfway between motorik and four-on-the-floor, yet it could be weird to dance along. It’s a deeply meditative record, delving into acoustic detours like Le vide est ton nouveau prénom or Morriconesque guitar-led songs like the hypnotic Où va le monde (also inspired in the French chanson) or Tueur de fleurs. Mid-tempos abound, letting the synthesizers shine through, evoking beautiful landscapes and deserted cities.
Changing between female and male vocals helps keeping it interesting, making this album feel not as long as it actually is. Sudden tempo changes make it even more palatable, strategically placed. With touches of post-punk, krautrock and disco (string arrangement and funky bass included!) Ssd is one of the catchiest, most interesting songs in Mystère, being one of the few moments that will make you tap your feet. The inclusion of a bluesy electric piano makes it even more diverse and unique among the rest of the album.
Exorciseur and Elle ne t'aime pas follow, with a few touches of trip-hop, and feeling somewhat like lots experiments by Gorillaz or Arcade Fire from the Reflektor era. Tatiana appears as another highlight of the album, a poppy, noisy number, with male choruses, evoking Mano Negra and even The Clash.
Closing song, 13-minute long Vagues has to be the best on the album, though. It’s a lengthy closer, that takes its time to reach its climax, but makes it worth it. Evoking both Cocteau Twins and Pink Floyd, it ends with a long psychedelic instrumental section. The bluesy and ethereal guitar solo it’s intense and emotional as it’s trippy.
Language can be a barrier for non-french speakers maybe, but it could be a pity not allowing yourself to enjoy this album filled with amazing music. This album can be enjoy regardless of meaning.
Final comment: Always in the Sun and Couteau are actually bonus tracks. None of them add much to the actual album but both are quite enjoyable.
